Hotel Review: Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel

Web Editor Sophie Ritchie indulges with an elegant weekend of picnics and perusing at Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel in Belgravia

Belgravia is an area of London that simply brims with timeless beauty. The archaic buildings are gorgeous, lined with endless rows of designer stores and elegant eateries. The people are so casually coifed that they could easily be mistaken for such shops’ walking adverts. Even the gated parks are in great shape, filled with trimmed hedges, stylish benches and exquisitely neat lawns. And, thanks to Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel’s new Belgravia Experience package, you can immerse yourself in Belgravia at its blooming best.

An eternal fan of anything hedonistic, I have to try it for myself. I arrive on a Friday night, a little weary from an unsurprising battle with Southern Rail and temperamental autumnal weather. But once I’ve checked in to Jumeirah Lowndes, it’s evident the journey was worth it – the quiet hotel, nestled just around the corner from Harvey Nichols, is sleekly modern, refined and full of luxurious detail.

Suave surroundings

My Junior Suite is large, full of minimalist decor and subdued grey and tan colour tones. Located on the top floor, it’s a calm and fairly neutral space – definitely somewhere to relax after a long journey. The clever wall-to-wall mirrors help create the illusion of an even bigger room, and soft lighting adds to the ambience. If you’ve been on your feet all day, such a place is perfect.

Ideal for keen city explorers, the new package offers everything needed to see Belgravia at its best. Not only do guests receive a copy of the hotel’s ‘book of the month,’ as chosen by nearby Belgravia Books, they can also indulge with a £20 voucher for award-winning Rococo Chocolates on nearby Motcomb Street.

Alternatively, cheese fans can choose a voucher for The Fine Cheese Co. I opted for the former, which I find waiting for me when I first arrive – peeking out of an envelope like a less shiny Charlie and The Chocolate Factory golden ticket.

Even better, those who book the package can also borrow the hotel’s fabulously chic Belgravia Bikes and roam around the local area with help from a Belgravia and Beyond by Bicycle’ map and guide.

The following morning, after an excellent night’s sleep and a few rounds at the delectable breakfast buffet (think platters of ruby red grapefruit, fresh pastries, juices and temptingly mini smoked salmon and cream cheese bagels) I waste no time in trying the bikes out with my friend. If you love exploring, they’re excellent for enjoying the local area in stylish fashion – but whilst the wicker baskets are adorable, watch out for the squeaky brakes!

As part of the offering, the Belgravia Experience also includes a picnic for two, which features freshly made sandwiches, fruit, giant walnut cones, deliciously crumbly scones and soft drinks of your choice. After our energetic morning of avid cycling, it’s a delicious way to end our stay in such suave surroundings – and the once packed parcels are left empty in no time.

The verdictFun and fabulous – it’s time to get on your bike.

Make it happen
Where: Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel, 21 Lowndes Street, London SW1X 9ES
Bookings: Phone +44 (0)20 7235 1234 or click here to make a reservation.
Cost: The Belgravia Experience package starts from £287 per room, per night, including taxes, based on two people sharing.